Doha: HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie emphasized that Qatar Environment Day, observed annually on February 26, serves as a vital opportunity to assess the progress of environmental initiatives, review priorities, and underline the role of community awareness in safeguarding the environment as a core element of comprehensive development and Qatar National Vision 2030.
According to Qatar News Agency, HE the Minister highlighted that this year's theme, "Our behavior reflects on our environment," emphasizes that environmental protection is a responsibility extending beyond institutions to individual daily habits, which collectively influence environmental quality. This underscores the importance of community involvement in supporting national environmental efforts.
Dr. Al Subaie pointed out that Qatar, under its wise leadership, has adopted a balanced approach to environmental and climate challenges, aligning economic growth with the conservation of natural resources. This strategy is grounded in strategic planning, effective governance, scientific research, and coordinated efforts among national entities, aimed at ensuring sustainable resources and enhancing quality of life.
He noted that the year 2025 is a crucial phase, marking the implementation of national policies, strategies, and projects that contribute to developing the environmental framework and enhancing the country's readiness to tackle environmental and climate challenges, under the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy 2024-2030 and the Third National Development Strategy.
Significant achievements include launching the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan, the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2025-2030, and creating a biodiversity database documenting over 2,567 species, accessible to researchers and the public via an interactive platform.
On the regulatory front, he mentioned updates to the legal framework for environmental work, including a draft law on environmental protection and sustainability, and regulatory decisions on the safe transport of radioactive materials and grazing regulations. Technical manuals on environmental assessment and radiological emergencies were also developed to enhance compliance and risk management.
Dr. Al Subaie also discussed advancements in environmental assessment through new licensing methods and the introduction of a smart environmental impact assessment system. Digital transformation efforts continue, with electronic services expanding to 89, and 30 services available via the Bee'ah application, complemented by an AI-powered virtual assistant.
In monitoring and surveillance, HE the Minister noted ongoing development of the national air quality monitoring network, marine and water monitoring programs, biodiversity and wildlife protection, management of protected areas, and breeding programs for endangered species and habitat restoration.
He highlighted the importance of environmental innovation through the Bithrah platform, which supports research and community initiatives. International cooperation remains a focus, with Qatar actively engaging in environmental forums and signing memoranda of understanding on environmental protection and biodiversity.
He noted that media campaigns and awareness programs in 2025 promoted responsible environmental behavior, with the theme "Our behavior reflects on our environment" capturing the essence of national environmental efforts. The commitment of individuals and institutions is pivotal in sustaining natural resources and quality of life.
In marine environmental protection, he emphasized priority measures for monitoring coastal and marine waters, in collaboration with national research institutions, to maintain ecosystem health and sustainability.
Regarding biodiversity, the ministry implemented species protection programs, habitat management, and expanded desertification control, alongside a project to propagate wild plants with an annual capacity of 25,000 seedlings and 300,000 seeds.
In studies and research, he noted efforts to institutionalize environmental innovation through the national creativity and innovation platform, fostering community participation and research collaboration.
On international cooperation, he stated that Qatar continues its active participation in global environmental forums, expanding international partnerships, and exchanging expertise to bolster its global environmental standing.
Finally, he emphasized the importance of environmental awareness, with the ministry conducting several media and community activities in 2025, reinforcing responsible environmental behavior across society.